An assessment of household food consumption patterns in Thailand

Abstract

This study examines household food consumption patterns in Thailand using the 2015 Socioeconomic Survey. A demand system consisting of six main food groups is estimated applying the Quadratic Almost Ideal Demand System model. The results indicate that the expenditure elasticity for rice and other grains is the lowest among all food groups. Meat and fishes, eggs and dairy products, and food-away-from-home (FAFH) appear to be luxuries. FAFH consumption is highly associated with household income and level of urbanization. All food groups are price-inelastic demand with supportive evidence of food purchase substitution. The responsiveness of food demand with respect to price and income show remarkable differences across socioeconomic status and geographic locations. Specifically, low-income and elderly-headed households tend to be more responsive to food price and income changes. This suggests that they are likely afflicted with inadequate food intake caused by soaring food prices or economic downturn.